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The topic of taking the Lord's name in vain can be a very serious and touchy one. Christians can become quite disturbed by it, because it is seen as disrespectful. In my experience, it's more a matter of ignorance than disrespect. Most people sincerely don't know any better. They do it because it's part of their cultural education; it's a colloquialism they've grew up with or it's "cool" to include it in their conversations.

Although the words may not mean anything to them, if they have importance to you, then you have a choice. You can chose to be offended by it OR you can turn a thoughtless comment into a wonderful gift for yourself. You can take the opportunity to acknowledge God's presence and spend a moment consciously offering prayer or gratitude to God. After all, how often do you get the chance to do that during the day?

Now, I'd like to propose another point of view to you: Sometimes, saying those dreaded words does not actually take the Lord's name in vain or "misuse the name" (NIV). Intent is everything ...

Personally, when I exclaim, "Oh my God!" in a moment of emotion, I am fully aware that I am drawing God's attention to me. That is the point. I want God's loving attention when I am frustrated, angry, or upset. Just by knowing God is listening helps me to calm down, guard my words, and realize that I am not alone in times of trouble.

If I make the exclamation when I've been told something astonishing, absurd, or just downright funny, I want my Maker's attention. By knowing that God is listening, I am sharing joy and celebrating life with the One who gave it to me.

And, when I cry out in an intimate moment, you'd better believe I'm including my God in the activities. By inviting my Creator into these intimate moments, I honor the need for God's presence to keep the relationship sacred and I humbly acknowledge that without God's guiding hand, I would not have a mate to share my passion with.

With these intentions in my heart, I hope to create a more loving and peaceful environment around me, beginning with drawing that love and peace to myself. With these intentions and a willingness to spend a moment with God when those words are said in our presence, we can gently spread Love and Light to the people around us. What a great way to live!

Learn more about this author, Rosa Lee.
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